Airman's Run and Coin Ceremony and Then We Got to Hug Caleb!

We were up by 5 to make it to the base on time to sit in a briefing on how to behave while on base.  Then it was time to head over for the Airman's run.  We were instructed to stay behind the white line or on the curb.  The MTI threatened to give any children who were not where they were supposed to be an espresso and a puppy and then return them.

Oh, look, I see them!

Here they come!  This was the first time we got to see our son since he left in November.

My son's flight is wearing the tan shirts just behind this flight in black.

He was on the far side and I didn't get a pic of him running by the first time but I did see him.  He saw us and turned to look as he ran by.  He looked proud, happy, and excited. 

He knew where to look for us on the way back.  Can you see him?  He's the second tall guy with dark hair behind the blue flag.

Here he comes.  He's right behind the elbow there on the left.

See him?  He's staring at the camera. 

And then they ran by and we had to wait about 2 hours before the coin ceremony.  We went to the bx for coffee to wait.  It seemed like the time would never go by.  Some day I'll have to tell you about the chair lady.

And then it was time to head back outside.  We waited too long and weren't able to get a seat in the bleachers.  We stood next to the band which turned out to be just fine as I got some great pics of Caleb as he marched in.  These are the Honor graduates receiving recognition for their hard work.

All of the flights lined up and ready to march in.

And here they go.

My son's flight was last.

Here comes his flight.

I see him!  He's the third guy behind the flag.

And now you get a closer view.

The flag looks like it will touch his hat.

Lining up for the ceremony.

The band marching in.

Caleb is right in front of the pole. 

The MTI's being thanked for all of their hard work.  Oh, the ceremony also included a prayer!

The new Airmmen getting their coins.

Honoring the flag and putting it to rest for the day.

Our 17 year old tapped out his big bro.  Tapping out means the guys stand at attention until you come up and shake their hand or give them a hug.

Super proud dad greeting his firstborn.

Lots of big hugs.

My oldest and youngest.  David(baby) was so proud of his big brother.  He wanted him to carry him and get him out of the car every time.  Oh, and he thought his flashlight was pretty cool too.

Caleb with his friends who drove all the way from Albuquerque to see him graduate.

Proud parents.

Buddies reunited for a little while.

We headed to the park for lunch since Caleb was not allowed to leave the base until Friday.

It was nice to be able to sit and talk to him and watch him enjoy relaxing.

Photo time!

Tech time.

The we headed to the mini mall to look for a garment bag.  We were all exhausted and ended up crashing in the furniture store for about an hour.  We weren't the only ones.  I caught a few guys taking a nap.  Yes, he likes her, a lot!

We took over two living room set ups.  So funny.

Then we headed back to the bx for dinner.  See how happy this kid is eating?  He was happy to be able to relax and enjoy his food. 

Then we had to drop him off at the bowling alley so he could march back to his dorm.  We headed back to the hotel, did a little swimming, and packed up for the next day which was also an early one...